Medications fall into certain categories which signify how harmful a drug might be during pregnancy. Drugs are categorized into category A, B, C, D, or X.

Category A: Adequate studies in pregnant women have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus in the first trimester, and there is no evidence of risk in later trimesters. The possibility of fetal harm appears remote. Example: Vitamin C, when used in recommended daily allowance dosage

Category B: Animal studies have not demonstrated fetal risk but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women, or animal studies have shown an adverse effect (other than a decrease in fertility), but adequate studies in pregnant women have not demonstrated a risk to the fetus during the first trimester, and there is no evidence of risk in later trimesters. Example: Ampicillin

Category C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus but there are no adequate studies in humans. The benefits from the use of the drug in pregnant women may be acceptable despite its potential risks, or there are no animal studies and no adequate studies in humans. Example: Zidovudine (AZT).

Category D: Positive evidence of human fetal risk exists, but the potential benefits from the use of the drug in pregnant women may be acceptable despite these risks (for a life-threatening condition or a serious disease for which safer drugs cannot be used or are ineffective). Example: Phenytoin (anticonvulsive).

Category X: Studies in animals or humans demonstrate fetal abnormalities or adverse-reaction reports indicate evidence of fetal risk. The risk of use in a pregnant woman clearly outweighs any possible benefit. Example: Isotretinoin